Portable NMR device and method for making and using the same

ABSTRACT

An embodiment of the invention relates to a portable or handheld device for performing NMR analysis. The device comprises a console and a strip which can be placed into the console through a slot or other means. The strip comprises a sample holding place and a microcoil for generating an excitation magnetic field across a sample in the sample holding space. A permanent magnet is provided either by the console or the strip and generates a static magnetic field which, together with the excitation magnetic field, creates NMR within the sample. Other embodiments of the invention also encompass method of performing NMR analysis using the portable device and method of making such devices.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional of application Ser. No. 11/319,373, filed Dec. 29, 2005, which is related to application Ser. No. 11/319,755, filed on Dec. 29, 2005 entitled “Integrated on chip NMR and ESR device and method for making and using the same,” which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The embodiments of the invention relate to portable NMR devices, methods of making such devices, and methods of performing NMR analysis using such devices. More specifically, the embodiments relate to devices and methods that integrate on-chip NMR capability into a portable or handheld console that performs on-cite and/or convenient NMR analysis. The console accommodates a removable strip that comprises a sample holding space and a microcoil for generating an excitation magnetic field for creating NMR. The strip may also comprise microarrays, macroarrays, microfluidic devices, MEMS, and/or integrated circuits. When the strip is placed in the console, the device can perform NMR analysis of a sample within the sample holding space. The embodiments of the invention enable on-site, rapid, sensitive, and/or efficient medical diagnostics and chemical analysis. The invention transcends several scientific disciplines such as nuclear chemistry and physics, engineering, analytical chemistry, and medical diagnostics.

BACKGROUND

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is widely used in chemical analysis and medical diagnostics. NMR is a physical phenomenon that occurs when the nuclei of certain atoms that are subject to a static magnetic field are exposed to a second oscillating magnetic field. The oscillating magnetic field, often generated by an electromagnet, is also called a perturbing or excitation magnetic field. Some nuclei experience this phenomenon, and others do not, dependent upon whether they possess a property called spin. An NMR analysis exploits such phenomena and reveals structural and other properties of molecules.

The current devices using the NMR principle have at least two drawbacks. First, the sizes of the devices are too big. Typical NMR spectrometers are bench-top models. Thus, the current spectrometers are too big to be used in field applications or at home environment. Second, the current NMR devices require a large amount of sample, which not only is infeasible for certain applications, but also hinders activities such as mixing and heating of the sample required for many analysis. Thus, there is a need for a miniaturized, integrated, and portable NMR device that can perform on-site, rapid, sensitive, and/or efficient analysis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a handheld NMR device.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic detailed view of an integrated strip used in a portable NMR device.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic top-down view of an integrated strip used in a portable NMR device.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic cross-section view of an integrated strip used in a portable NMR device.

FIG. 5 shows another schematic cross-section view of an integrated strip with a microchannel for containing the sample.

FIG. 6 shows another schematic cross-section view of an integrated strip with an integrated electromagnet having a magnetic core.

FIG. 7 a shows a schematic top-down view of a strip with an array of NMR microcoils and sample reservoirs.

FIG. 7 b shows a schematic detailed view of a strip with an on-chip NMR microcoil.

FIG. 8 shows a schematic cross-section view of a strip with an array of NMR microcoils and sample reservoirs.

FIG. 9 shows another schematic cross-section view of a strip with an array of NMR microcoils and a sample reservoir.

FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart of disease detection using DNA hybridization and an integrated strip with arrays of NMR microcoils and sample reservoirs with a portable console.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments of the invention relate to a portable integrated on-chip NMR device for performing chemical analysis and medical diagnostics. Specifically, the device contains a portable console having an opening that accommodates a removable strip. The strip comprises a sample holding space and a microcoil for generating an excitation magnetic field across sample holding space. The device further comprises a magnet, either on the console or the strip, for generating a static magnetic field across the sample holding space. The static and excitation magnetic fields are able to create NMR within a sample in the sample holding space and collect and/or process the signals from the NMR.

The embodiments of the invention further relate to a portable device where an array of NMR microcoils and corresponding sample reservoirs are contained in a single strip that can be placed in a portable console. Signals from the NMR are detected and collected by the microcoils and are process either by circuitries on the strip or the console.

The embodiments of the invention also relate to methods of making portable NMR devices and methods of performing NMR using the portable devices. One application of the NMR is their use in a DNA array for simultaneous multiple DNA analysis. The strip of the embodiments of the invention may be part of an integrated device that also serves as a microarray or macroarray, an integrated circuit, a microfluidic device, a MEMS, or a combination. Therefore, samples contained or processed by the device may be also analyzed by the integrated NMR device and the signals processed for analysis. If necessary, the signals from the NMR may be transmitted to another device fur further analysis, such as NMR spectroscopy or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “an array” may include a plurality of arrays unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

A “substrate” refers to a material or a combination of materials upon and/or within which other or additional materials are formed, attached, or otherwise associated with according to a predetermined fashion. A substrate often provides physical and functional support to the other or additional materials such that, together, they form part or whole of a functional device. A substrate may be a combination of two or more other substrates, which, due to the combination, have become an identifiable new substrate. In the embodiments of the invention, the substrate may comprise metal, silicon, glass, or polymeric materials. In more specific embodiments, the substrate comprises an integrated material, such as a microfluidic device or an integrated circuit die.

A “strip” refers to a generally flat and thin substrate. A strip as used herein can be generally defined by its thickness and its top-down view profile, which is often rectangular but can be in other shapes such as square, circle, or other regular or irregular shapes. For example, a typical glass slide is a strip with a rectangular top-down view profile. A microchip is also a strip which is thin in thickness and a rectangular or other top-down view profile. “Strip” is often used interchangeably with “substrate” when the shape of the strip is not material to the situation.

A “console” refers to a device, substrate, or support that contains, or is able to accommodate, controls and displays of an electronic and/or mechanical system. A console is also able to accommodate other devices or substrates which, together with the console, are able to perform certain functions. For example, according to embodiments of the invention, a console can accommodate a strip, wherein the strip is placed on or within the console through an opening, a slot, or other means. The console and strip are connected to each other electronically, mechanically, or through other means and, together, they are able to perform certain functions. The strip may be removed or changed when necessary. Although a console often has a block shape, it can take on many different shapes depending on the specific circumstances and required.

A “portable” device or console refers to a device or console that can be relatively easily carried or moved around by a typical person, with or without simple mechanical assistance. Thus, a portable device has size and weight limitations in the conventional sense such that it can be “carried around.” Further, a portable device should be able to perform substantially the same functions as it is carried or moved around to different places. A “handheld” device or console refers to portable device or console that can be held or carried by the hands of a typical person.

A “microcoil” is a coil, or one or more connected loops, having at least one dimension in the micrometer (μm), or less than 10⁻³ meter (mm), scale. A microcoil usually comprises a thin material wound or gathered around a center or an imaginative center into spiral, helical or other shapes. A microcoil is defined by the material itself, the shape of the windings, and the separation between each windings. Solenoid type microcoils are multiple spiral wire loops, which may or may not be wrapped around a metallic core. A Solenoid type microcoil produces a magnetic field when an electrical current is passed through it and can create controlled magnetic fields. A Solenoid type microcoil can produce a uniform magnetic field in a predetermined volume of space. A “planar” microcoil is a microcoil with its windings substantially remained in an actual or imaginative plane.

A “microchannel” is a channel, groove, or conduit having at least one dimension in the micrometer (μm), or less than 10⁻³ meter (mm), scale. Although microchannels are typically straight along their length, they may contain angles and curves of different degrees along their length. Although the microchannels typically have rectangular cross-sections, they may also have other shapes of cross-sections, such as circle. The microchannels are usually suitable for fluidic communications, such as carrying through a biological liquid. The microchannels are often part of an integrated device, such a microfluidic device or an integrated circuit such that liquid flowing through the microchannels are in a controlled pattern and able to be analyzed as desired.

As used in the embodiments of the invention, “associated with” or “in association with” means that two or more objects are so situated that the desired results or effects are achieved. For example, a microcoil is “associated” with a space for holding a liquid sample when the microcoil is so situated that it will achieve the desired effect of generating an excitation magnetic field or creating, together with the static magnetic field generated by the magnet, NMR within at least a portion of a sample in the space. In such situations, the magnet is also “associated” with the space and the microcoil. A number of factors will be considered when associating the microcoil or the magnet with the space, including whether the magnet is on the console or the strip, the sizes and shapes of the console and strip, the type and size of the microcoil and the magnet, the size and location of the associated space, the desired strengths of the excitation magnetic field and the static magnetic field and, and the volume within which the desired NMR will be effectuated. As disclosed herein, the specific locations of the magnet and microcoil on the strip, or substrate, will be determined based on the specific analysis desired by a person skilled in the art.

As used herein, “dimension” or “dimensions” are the parameters or measurements required to define the shape and/or size, such as height, width, and length, of an object. As used herein, the dimension of a two-dimensional object, such as a rectangle, a polygon, or a circle, is the longest straight-line distance between any two points on the object. Therefore the dimension of a circle is its diameter; a rectangle its diagonal, and a polygon its longest diagonal. The dimension of a three-dimensional object is the longest straight-line distance between any two points on the object. The dimensions used herein are usually measured by centimeters (cm), millimeters (mm), and micrometers (μm), and nanometers (nm).

A “microfluidic device” is a device that has one or more microchannels. A microfluidic device may be part of an integrated device, such as an integrated separation or detection equipment or an integrated circuit. Fluids used in microfluidic devices include whole blood samples, bacterial cell suspensions, protein or antibody solutions and various buffers and saline. Microfluidic devices can be used to obtain many interesting measurements, including fluid mechanical properties, cellular and molecular diffusion coefficients, fluid viscosity, pH values, chemical and biological binding coefficients and enzyme reaction kinetics. Other applications for microfluidic devices include cell and molecule detection and separation, capillary electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing, immunoassays, flow cytometry, sample injection of proteins for analysis via mass spectrometry, DNA analysis, cell manipulation, and cell separation. In the embodiment of the invention, magnetic materials and technologies are incorporated into the microfluidic devices for applications such as cell and biomolecule detection and separation.

The use of microfluidic devices to conduct biomedical assays has many significant advantages. First, because the volume of fluids within these channels is very small, usually several nano-liters, the amount of reagents and analytes required for the assays is quite small. This is especially significant for expensive reagents. The fabrications techniques used to construct microfluidic devices, discussed in more details herein, are relatively inexpensive and are very amenable both to highly elaborated, multiplexed devices and also to mass production, such as in an integrated circuit die. In manners similar to that for microelectronics, microfluidic technologies also enable the fabrication of highly integrated devices for performing different functions on the same substrate chip. Embodiments of the invention helps create integrated, portable clinical diagnostic devices for home and bedside use, thereby eliminating time consuming laboratory analysis procedures.

In the embodiments of the invention, the flow of a fluid through a microfluidic channel, or microchannel, can be characterized by the Reynolds number (Re), defined as Re=LV _(avg)ρ/μ where L is the most relevant length scale, μ is the fluid viscosity, ρ is the fluid density, and V_(avg) is the average velocity of the flow. For many microchannels, including channels with a rectangular cross-section, L is equal to 4A/P where A is the cross-sectional area of the channel and P is the wetted perimeter of the channel. Due to the small dimensions of microchannels, the Re is usually much less than 100, often less than 1.0. In this Reynolds number regime, flow is completely laminar and no turbulence occurs. The transition to turbulent flow generally occurs in the range of Reynolds number 2000. Laminar flow provides a means by which molecules can be transported in a relatively predictable manner through microchannels.

As used herein, “magnetic,” “magnetic effect,” and “magnetism” refer to the phenomena by which one material exert an attractive or repulsive force on another material. Although theoretically all materials are influenced to one degree or another by magnetic effect, those skilled in the art understand that magnetic effect or magnetism is only recognized for its detectability under the specific circumstance.

As used herein, a “permanent magnet” is a material that has a magnetic field without relying upon outside influences. Due to their unpaired electron spins, some metals are magnetic when found in their natural states, as ores. These include iron ore (magnetite or lodestone), cobalt, and nickel. A “paramagnetic material” refers to a material that attracts and repels like normal magnets when subject to a magnetic field. Paramagnetic materials include aluminum, barium, platinum, and magnesium. A “ferromagnetic material” is a material that can exhibit a spontaneous magnetization. Ferromagnetism is one of the strongest forms of magnetism and is the basis for all permanent magnets. Ferromagnetic materials include iron, nickel, and cobalt. A “superparamagnetic material” is a magnetic material that exhibits a behavior similar to that of a paramagnetic material at temperatures below the Curie or the Neel temperature.

An “electromagnet” is a type of magnet in which the magnetic field is produced by a flow of electric current. The magnetic field disappears when the current ceases. A simple type of electromagnet is a coiled piece of wire that is electrically connected. An advantage of an electromagnet is that the magnetic field can be rapidly manipulated over a wide range by controlling the electric current. In the embodiments of the invention, ferromagnetic or non-magnetic materials are used to form the electromagnets.

An “array,” “macroarray” or “microarray” is an intentionally created collection of substances, such as molecules, openings, microcoils, detectors and/or sensors, attached to or fabricated on a strip or solid surface, such as glass, plastic, silicon chip or other substrate forming an array. The arrays can be used to measure the expression levels of large numbers of reactions or combinations simultaneously. The substances in the array can be identical or different from each other. The array can assume a variety of formats, e.g., libraries of soluble molecules; libraries of compounds tethered to resin beads, silica chips, or other solid supports. The array could either be a macroarray or a microarray, depending on the size of the pads on the array. A macroarray generally contains pad sizes of about 300 microns or larger and can be easily imaged by gel and blot scanners. A microarray would generally contain pad sizes of less than 300 microns.

An array of microcoils is a collection of microcoils fabricated on a strip or substrate, such as silicon, glass, or polymeric substrate. Each of the microcoils may be associated or corresponded with a sample space across which the microcoil is capable of generating an oscillating magnetic field as part of an NMR analysis. The sample space may be a space for holding a liquid sample or a spot for immobilizing certain molecules, such as DNAs and proteins. The microcoil arrays may be a microarray or a macroarray depending on the sizes or the microcoils and the associated sample spaces.

A DNA microarray is a collection of microscopic DNA spots attached to a solid surface forming an array. DNA microarrays can be used to measure the expression levels of large numbers of genes simultaneously. In a DNA microarray, the affixed DNA segments are known as probes, thousands of which can be used in a single DNA microarray. Measuring gene expression using microarrays is relevant to many areas of biology and medicine, such as studying treatments, disease and developmental stages.

“Solid support” and “support” refer to a material or group of materials having a rigid or semi-rigid surface or surfaces. In some aspects, at least one surface of the solid support will be substantially flat, although in some aspects it may be desirable to physically separate synthesis regions for different molecules with, for example, wells, raised regions, pins, etched trenches, or the like. In certain aspects, the solid support(s) will take the form of beads, resins, gels, microspheres, or other geometric configurations.

The term “molecule” generally refers to a macromolecule or polymer as described herein. However, microchannels or arrays comprising single molecules, as opposed to macromolecules or polymers, are also within the scope of the embodiments of the invention.

A “macromolecule” or “polymer” comprises two or more monomers covalently joined. The monomers may be joined one at a time or in strings of multiple monomers, ordinarily known as “oligomers.” Thus, for example, one monomer and a string of five monomers may be joined to form a macromolecule or polymer of six monomers. Similarly, a string of fifty monomers may be joined with a string of hundred monomers to form a macromolecule or polymer of one hundred and fifty monomers. The term polymer as used herein includes, for example, both linear and cyclic polymers of nucleic acids, polynucleotides, polynucleotides, polysaccharides, oligosaccharides, proteins, polypeptides, peptides, phospholipids and peptide nucleic acids (PNAs). The peptides include those peptides having either α-, β-, or ω-amino acids. In addition, polymers include heteropolymers in which a known drug is covalently bound to any of the above, polyurethanes, polyesters, polycarbonates, polyureas, polyamides, polyethyleneimines, polyarylene sulfides, polysiloxanes, polyimides, polyacetates, or other polymers which will be apparent upon review of this disclosure.

The term “biomolecule” refers to any organic molecule that is part of or from a living organism. Biomolecules include a nucleotide, a polynucleotide, an oligonucleotide, a peptide, a protein, a ligand, a receptor, among others. A “complex of a biomolecule” refers to a structure made up of two or more types of biomolecules. Examples of a complex of biomolecule include a cell or viral particles.

As used herein, “biological cells” and “cells” are interchangeable, unless otherwise clearly indicated, and refer to the structural and functional units of all living organisms, sometimes called the “building blocks of life.” Cells, as used herein include bacteria, fungi, and animal mammalian cells. Specifically included are animal blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

The term “target,” “target molecule,” or “target cell” refers to a molecule or biological cell of interest that is to be analyzed or detected, e.g., a nucleotide, an oligonucleotide, a polynucleotide, a peptide, a protein, or a blood cell. The target or target molecule could be a small molecule, biomolecule, or nanomaterial such as but not necessarily limited to a small molecule that is biologically active, nucleic acids and their sequences, peptides and polypeptides, as well as nanostructure materials chemically modified with biomolecules or small molecules capable of binding to molecular probes such as chemically modified carbon nanotubes, carbon nanotube bundles, nanowires and nanoparticles. The target molecule or cell may be magnetically tagged, or labeled to facilitate their detection and separation.

The term “probe” or “probe molecule” refers to a molecule that binds to a target molecule or cell for the analysis of the target. The probe or probe molecule is generally, but not necessarily, has a known molecular structure or sequence. The probe or probe molecule is generally, but not necessarily, attached to a solid support of the microfluidic device or array. The probe or probe molecule is typically a nucleotide, an oligonucleotide, a polynucleotide, a peptide, or a protein, including, for example, cDNA or pre-synthesized polynucleotide deposited on the array. Probes molecules are biomolecules capable of undergoing binding or molecular recognition events with target molecules or cells. A probe or probe molecule can be a capture molecule.

The term “capture molecule” refers to a molecule that is immobilized on a surface. The capture molecule is generally, but not necessarily, binds to a target or target molecule or cell. The capture molecule is typically a nucleotide, an oligonucleotide, a polynucleotide, a peptide, or a protein, but could also be a small molecule, biomolecule, or nanomaterial such as but not necessarily limited to a small molecule that is biologically active, nucleic acids and their sequences, peptides and polypeptides, as well as nanostructure materials chemically modified with biomolecules or small molecules capable of binding to a target molecule that is bound to a probe molecule to form a complex of the capture molecule, target molecule and the probe molecule. The capture molecule may be magnetically or fluorescently labeled DNA or RNA. In specific embodiments of the invention, the capture molecule may be immobilized on the surface of a magnetic tunnel junction sensor, which itself is part of an integrated device, such as a microfluidic device or an integrated circuit. The capture molecule may or may not be capable of binding to just the target molecule or cell, or just the probe molecule.

The terms “die,” “polymer array chip,” “DNA array,” “array chip,” “DNA array chip,” or “bio-chip” are used interchangeably and refer to a collection of a large number of probes arranged on a shared substrate which could be a portion of a silicon wafer, a nylon strip or a glass slide.

The term “nucleotide” includes deoxynucleotides and analogs thereof. These analogs are those molecules having some structural features in common with a naturally occurring nucleotide such that when incorporated into a polynucleotide sequence, they allow hybridization with a complementary polynucleotide in solution. Typically, these analogs are derived from naturally occurring nucleotides by replacing and/or modifying the base, the ribose or the phosphodiester moiety. The changes can be tailor-made to stabilize or destabilize hybrid formation, or to enhance the specificity of hybridization with a complementary polynucleotide sequence as desired, or to enhance stability of the polynucleotide.

The term “polynucleotide” or “nucleic acid” as used herein refers to a polymeric form of nucleotides of any length, either ribonucleotides or deoxyribonucleotides, that comprise purine and pyrimidine bases, or other natural, chemically or biochemically modified, non-natural, or derivatized nucleotide bases. Polynucleotides of the embodiments of the invention include sequences of deoxyribopolynucleotide (DNA), ribopolynucleotide (RNA), or DNA copies of ribopolynucleotide (cDNA) which may be isolated from natural sources, recombinantly produced, or artificially synthesized. A further example of a polynucleotide of the embodiments of the invention may be polyamide polynucleotide (PNA). The polynucleotides and nucleic acids may exist as single-stranded or double-stranded. The backbone of the polynucleotide can comprise sugars and phosphate groups, as may typically be found in RNA or DNA, or modified or substituted sugar or phosphate groups. A polynucleotide may comprise modified nucleotides, such as methylated nucleotides and nucleotide analogs. The sequence of nucleotides may be interrupted by non-nucleotide components. The polymers made of nucleotides such as nucleic acids, polynucleotides and polynucleotides may also be referred to herein as “nucleotide polymers.

When the biomolecule or macromolecule of interest is a peptide, the amino acids can be any amino acids, including α, β or ω-amino acids. When the amino acids are α-amino acids, either the L-optical isomer or the D-optical isomer may be used. Additionally, unnatural amino acids, for example, β-alanine, phenylglycine and homoarginine are also contemplated by the embodiments of the invention. These amino acids are well-known in the art.

A “peptide” is a polymer in which the monomers are amino acids and which are joined together through amide bonds and alternatively referred to as a polypeptide. In the context of this specification it should be appreciated that the amino acids may be the L-optical isomer or the D-optical isomer. Peptides are two or more amino acid monomers long, and often more than 20 amino acid monomers long.

A “protein” is a long polymer of amino acids linked via peptide bonds and which may be composed of two or more polypeptide chains. More specifically, the term “protein” refers to a molecule composed of one or more chains of amino acids in a specific order; for example, the order as determined by the base sequence of nucleotides in the gene coding for the protein. Proteins are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's cells, tissues, and organs, and each protein has unique functions. Examples are hormones, enzymes, and antibodies.

The term “sequence” refers to the particular ordering of monomers within a macromolecule and it may be referred to herein as the sequence of the macromolecule.

The term “hybridization” refers to the process in which two single-stranded polynucleotides bind non-covalently to form a stable double-stranded polynucleotide; triple-stranded hybridization is also theoretically possible. The resulting (usually) double-stranded polynucleotide is a “hybrid.” The proportion of the population of polynucleotides that forms stable hybrids is referred to herein as the “degree of hybridization.” For example, hybridization refers to the formation of hybrids between a probe polynucleotide (e.g., a polynucleotide of the invention which may include substitutions, deletion, and/or additions) and a specific target polynucleotide (e.g., an analyte polynucleotide) wherein the probe preferentially hybridizes to the specific target polynucleotide and substantially does not hybridize to polynucleotides consisting of sequences which are not substantially complementary to the target polynucleotide. However, it will be recognized by those of skill that the minimum length of a polynucleotide desired for specific hybridization to a target polynucleotide will depend on several factors: G/C content, positioning of mismatched bases (if any), degree of uniqueness of the sequence as compared to the population of target polynucleotides, and chemical nature of the polynucleotide (e.g., methylphosphonate backbone, phosphorothiolate, etc.), among others.

Methods for conducting polynucleotide hybridization assays have been well developed in the art. Hybridization assay procedures and conditions will vary depending on the application and are selected in accordance with the general binding methods known in the art.

It is appreciated that the ability of two single stranded polynucleotides to hybridize will depend upon factors such as their degree of complementarity as well as the stringency of the hybridization reaction conditions.

As used herein, “stringency” refers to the conditions of a hybridization reaction that influence the degree to which polynucleotides hybridize. Stringent conditions can be selected that allow polynucleotide duplexes to be distinguished based on their degree of mismatch. High stringency is correlated with a lower probability for the formation of a duplex containing mismatched bases. Thus, the higher the stringency, the greater the probability that two single-stranded polynucleotides, capable of forming a mismatched duplex, will remain single-stranded. Conversely, at lower stringency, the probability of formation of a mismatched duplex is increased.

The appropriate stringency that will allow selection of a perfectly-matched duplex, compared to a duplex containing one or more mismatches (or that will allow selection of a particular mismatched duplex compared to a duplex with a higher degree of mismatch) is generally determined empirically. Means for adjusting the stringency of a hybridization reaction are well-known to those of skill in the art.

A “ligand” is a molecule that is recognized by a particular receptor. Examples of ligands that can be investigated by this invention include, but are not restricted to, agonists and antagonists for cell membrane receptors, toxins and venoms, viral epitopes, hormones, hormone receptors, peptides, enzymes, enzyme substrates, cofactors, drugs (e.g. opiates, steroids, etc.), lectins, sugars, polynucleotides, nucleic acids, oligosaccharides, proteins, and monoclonal antibodies.

A “receptor” is a molecule that has an affinity for a given ligand. Receptors may-be naturally-occurring or manmade molecules. Also, they can be employed in their unaltered state or as aggregates with other species. Receptors may be attached, covalently or noncovalently, to a binding member, either directly or via a specific binding substance. Examples of receptors which can be employed by this invention include, but are not restricted to, antibodies, cell membrane receptors, monoclonal antibodies and antisera reactive with specific antigenic determinants (such as on viruses, cells or other materials), drugs, polynucleotides, nucleic acids, peptides, cofactors, lectins, sugars, polysaccharides, cells, cellular membranes, and organelles. Receptors are sometimes referred to in the art as anti-ligands. As the term “receptors” is used herein, no difference in meaning is intended. A “Ligand Receptor Pair” is formed when two macromolecules have combined through molecular recognition to form a complex.

The term “chip” or “microchip” refers to a small device or substrate that comprises components for performing certain functions. A chip includes substrates made from silicon, glass, metal, polymer, or combinations and capable of functioning as a microarray, a macroarray, a microfluidic device, a MEMS, and/or an integrated circuit. A chip may be a microelectronic device made of semiconductor material and having one or more integrated circuits or one or more devices. A “chip” or “microchip” is typically a section of a wafer and made by slicing the wafer. A “chip” or “microchip” may comprise many miniature transistors and other electronic components on a single thin rectangle of silicon, sapphire, germanium, silicon nitride, silicon germanium, or of any other semiconductor material. A microchip can contain dozens, hundreds, or millions of electronic components. In the embodiments of the invention, as discussed herein, microchannels, microfluidic devices, and magnetic tunnel junction sensors can also be integrated into a microchip.

“Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS)” is the integration of mechanical elements, sensors, actuators, and electronics on a common silicon substrate through microfabrication technology. While the electronics are fabricated using integrated circuit (IC) process sequences (e.g., CMOS, Bipolar, or BICMOS processes), the micromechanical components could be fabricated using compatible “micromachining” processes that selectively etch away parts of the silicon wafer or add new structural layers to form the mechanical and electromechanical devices. Microelectronic integrated circuits can be thought of as the “brains” of a system and MEMS augments this decision-making capability with “eyes” and “arms”, to allow Microsystems to sense and control the environment. Sensors gather information from the environment through measuring mechanical, thermal, biological, chemical, optical, and magnetic phenomena. The electronics then process the information derived from the sensors and through some decision making capability direct the actuators to respond by moving, positioning, regulating, pumping, and filtering, thereby controlling the environment for some desired outcome or purpose. Because MEMS devices are manufactured using batch fabrication techniques similar to those used for integrated circuits, unprecedented levels of functionality, reliability, and sophistication can be placed on a small silicon chip at a relatively low cost. In the embodiments of the invention, as discussed herein, MEMS devices are further integrated with microchannels, microfluidic devices, and/or magnetic tunnel junction sensors, such that, together, they perform separation and detection function for biological cells and biomolecules.

“Microprocessor” is a processor on an integrated circuit (IC) chip. The processor may be one or more processor on one or more IC chip. The chip is typically a silicon chip with thousands of electronic components that serves as a central processing unit (CPU) of a computer or a computing device.

A “nanomaterial” as used herein refers to a structure, a device or a system having a dimension at the atomic, molecular or macromolecular levels, in the length scale of approximately 1-1000 nanometer (nm) range. Preferably, a nanomaterial has properties and functions because of the size and can be manipulated and controlled on the atomic level.

The term “complementary” refers to the topological compatibility or matching together of interacting surfaces of a ligand molecule and its receptor. Thus, the receptor and its ligand can be described as complementary, and furthermore, the contact surface characteristics are complementary to each other.

One embodiment of the invention relates to a portable device for performing NMR analysis. The device comprises a console; a strip comprising a space for holding a liquid sample and a microcoil capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across at least a portion of the space; and a magnet capable of generating a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space. According to the embodiment, the strip is capable of being placed within the console and wherein the static magnetic field and the excitation magnetic field are capable of creating Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) within a liquid sample contained in the space; and wherein the microcoil is capable of detecting signals from the NMR.

The portable device generally has such a shape and weight that it can be carried or moved relatively easily by a typical person. In one embodiment, the console has a dimension of from about 1.0 cm to about 50 cm, or more specifically, from about 5.0 cm to about 30 cm. Although the console generally has a block shape, it may take on any shape suitable for performing the required functions. The console may contain controls and displays that allow easier performance of the NMR analysis. The device can be powered by either an external power source or an internal power source. In one embodiment, the device is powered by a battery, which may be either internal or external.

In another embodiment, the console comprises an opening through which the strip is placed within the console. The opening enables the connection and combination of the console and the strip such that they can perform certain functions jointly. In one embodiment, the opening is a slot through which the strip is inserted into the console.

In the embodiment, the strip is placed on or within the console, the magnet, the space for holding a liquid sample, and the microcoil should be positioned such that an NMR can be effectuated by the magnet and the microcoil upon a sample in the space. Further, the strip and the console should be so connected that signals from the NMR can be transmitted, e.g., through the microcoil to the relevant components of the console for further processing and analysis. In one embodiment, the console comprises circuitry capable of detecting, processing, or analyzing the signals from the NMR. In another embodiment, the console comprises an integrated circuit or a MEMS.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the invention, in which a portable NMR device comprising a handheld console and an individual strip is shown. The console comprises a built-in magnet, which can be either a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, detection circuits, memory capability for data collection and storage, and wired and/or wireless ports for electronic connection or communication with other devices. The console also comprises a slot inserting the strip into the console. The strip comprises a microcoil and a sample chamber. Further, there pads or other means on the console and the strip for electrical connection between the console and the strip. An NMR analysis can be carried out for a sample on the sample chamber when the strip is inserted into the console through the slot. Controls and displays (not shown) on the console help control and carry out the analysis. Further, an NMR spectrum can be obtained by the console, with or without external devices. FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed view of the strip and the microcoil. FIG. 2 also illustrates another embodiment of the invention wherein the magnet, whether permanent or electromagnetic, can be fabricated on the strip. In such a case, a magnet on the console is not necessary or not used.

The embodiments of the invention encompass a portable console with an opening for a removable strip. The strip, or substrate, integrates a sample holding space and a microcoil for generating an excitation magnetic field so that NMR could occur within a sample in the space. A magnet for generating the necessary static magnetic field can be placed either on the console or the strip. Furthermore, the microcoil, in addition to generating the excitation magnetic field, is able to detect and collect signals from the NMR further processing by circuitries on the console, such as for an NMR spectroscopy or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

In one embodiment of the invention, the strip or substrate comprises silicon, glass, a polymeric material, metal, or a combination thereof. More specifically, the strip comprises an integrated circuit, a MEMS device, a microarray, a macroarray, a multi-well plate, a microfluidic device, or a combination thereof. In other words, the embodiment can be integrated into a wide range of materials used in a variety of existing devices.

Silicon is a suitable material for forming micro-channels coupled with microelectronics or other microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). It also has good stiffness, allowing the formation of fairly rigid microstructures, which can be useful for dimensional stability. In a specific embodiment of the invention, the strip or substrate comprises an integrated circuit (IC), a packaged integrated circuit, and/or an integrated circuit die. For example, the substrate may be a packaged integrated circuit that comprises a microprocessor, a network processor, or other processing device. The substrate may be constructed using, for example, a Controlled Collapse Chip Connection (or “C4”) assembly technique, wherein a plurality of leads, or bond pads are internally electrically connected by an array of connection elements (e.g., solder bumps, columns).

Specific materials useful as the strip also include, but not limited to, polystyrene, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), glass, chemically functionalized glass, polymer-coated glass, nitrocellulose coated glass, uncoated glass, quartz, natural hydrogel, synthetic hydrogel, plastics, metals, and ceramics. The substrate may comprise any platform or device currently used for carrying out immunoassays, DNA or protein microarray analysis. Thus, the substrate may comprise a microarray or a macroarray, a multi-well plate, a microfluidic device, or a combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the strip comprises circuitry that is capable of amplifying or processing the NMR signals detected by the microcoil. Any suitable conventional circuits may be used and integrated into the substrate for amplifying and/or processing, including filtering, the NMR signals detected and collected by the microcoil. The integrated circuitry may be able to generate NMR spectra independently or connected to an external device for generating the device.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the space for holding a liquid sample comprises a reservoir, a microchannel, an opening, a surface, or a combination thereof. The embodiment accommodates a variety of applications in which an NMR is involved. For example, the sample holding space may be a reservoir, an opening void, or a surface that can hold a liquid sample. In such cases, the sample holding space may be an open reservoir or surface, or a substantially closed void with an opening for sample input. The design of the space depends not only on the specific analysis to be done, but also on how to best situate and design the sample holding space in relation to the associated magnet and microcoil, as discussed herein.

According to the embodiment, the space for holding a liquid sample may also be the whole or part of a microchannel fabricated on the strip, or substrate. Depending on the specific requirement, the microchannel may be open (a trench) or closed. The microchannel typically comprises an inlet and an outlet, but may also comprise other opening for fluidic communication. In another embodiment, the microchannel comprise two or more inlets and at least one outlet such that different reactants may be introduced into the channel from different inlets and mixed at a mixing section within the channel for specific chemical reaction. Furthermore, the microchannel may comprise more than two inlets and more than one mixing sections such that more than one reaction may occur within different sections of the mircochannel according predetermined manners. As discussed herein, the microchannel is designed in consideration with its relations with the associated magnet and microcoil to achieve the desired NMR.

In the embodiments of the invention, the portable NMR devices can accommodate a wide range of sample volume, including very small amount of samples. In one embodiment, the space for holding a liquid sample has a volume of from about 1.0 nL to about 1.0 mL. In another embodiment, the space has a volume of from about 10 nL to about 10 μL. As understood by a person skilled in the art, actual sample volumes will depend on the nature of the analysis to be conducted, in addition to the limitation of the device. Also, the volume of the sample that actually experiences the NMR phenomenon will depend on the design and dimension of the device as well as the analysis being conducted. In cases where the space for holding the liquid sample is a microchannel having two inlets and one outlet, the total sample holding space may be substantially larger than the volume that is under NMR effect. For example, the total channel volume, excluding the inlets and outlet, may be about 1.0 μm while the volume under the microcoil, or the NMR effect, may be about only 10 nL to 100 nL.

In one embodiment of the invention, the magnet, whether on the console or the strip, comprises a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. As disclosed herein, the permanent magnet or electromagnet generates a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space for holding a liquid sample. Materials suitable for use as the permanent magnet or electromagnet include permanent magnetic materials, ferromagnetic materials, paramagnetic materials, and non-magnetic metals. When a ferromagnetic material is used for the magnet, an external magnetic field is used to magnetize the material. Further, when either a ferromagnetic or non-magnetic material is used for the magnet, an electrical current is applied to the material to create an electromagnet. In one embodiment of the invention, the magnet comprises one or more of iron, nickel, cobalt, a rare-earth material such as neodymium, copper, aluminum, and mixtures thereof. More specifically, a Neodymium-Iron-Boron type magnet can be used.

In the embodiment, the static magnetic field, together with the excitation magnetic field generated by the microcoil, is capable of creating Nuclear Magnetic Resonance within a liquid sample contained in the space. In this regard, the magnet is “associated” with the space for holding a liquid sample, meaning that the magnet is so situated that it will achieve the desired effect. A number of factors will be considered when associating the magnet with the space, including whether the magnet is on the console or the strip, the sizes and shapes of the console and strip, the size of the magnet, the sizes and locations of the associated space and microcoil, the desired strength of the static magnetic field, and the volume within which the desired NMR will be effectuated. In a specific embodiment, the magnet is placed near or adjacent to the space for holding a liquid sample, when the strip is placed within the console. The specific type, size, strength, and location of the magnet on the strip will be determined based on the specific analysis desired by a person skilled in the art.

In a specific embodiment, the magnet is capable of generating a static magnetic field strength of from about 0.01 Tesla (T) to about 30 T, or more specifically, from about 0.05 T to about 10 T. As disclosed herein, for NMR, a static magnetic field strength of 0.1 T or more may be required. Usually, a static magnetic field strength of 0.5 T or more is used in an NMR. Thus, in a specific embodiment, the magnet is capable of generating a static magnetic field strength of from about 0.1 T to about 5.0 T. In another specific embodiment, the magnet is capable of generating a static magnetic field strength of from about 0.1 T to about 2.0 T.

In the embodiments of the invention, many conductive materials are suitable for the microcoil. The selection of materials for the microcoil depends on several factors including the type and size of the coil, the desired strength of excitation magnetic field, the size and location of space for holding a liquid sample, the shape, size and nature of the strip, and the nature and location of the magnet. The conductivity of the material is important to the selection. In one embodiment of the invention, the microcoil comprises copper, aluminum, gold, silver, or a mixture thereof.

In the embodiments of the invention, the microcoil is “associated” with the space for holding a liquid sample, meaning that meaning that the microcoil is so situated that it will achieve the desired effect of creating NMR within at least a portion of the space. A number of factors will be considered when associating the microcoil with the space, including the type and size of the microcoil, the sizes and locations of the associated space and magnet, the desired strength of the static magnetic field and the excitation magnetic field, and the volume within which the desired NMR will be effectuated. In a specific embodiment, the microcoil is placed near or adjacent to the space for holding a liquid sample. The specific type, size, strength, and location of the microcoil on the substrate will be determined based on the specific analysis desired by a person skilled in the art.

In one embodiment of the invention, the microcoil is a Solenoid type coil. Solenoid type microcoils are multiple spiral wire loops, which may or may not be wrapped around a metallic core. A Solenoid type microcoil produces a magnetic field when an electrical current is passed through it and can create controlled magnetic fields. In the embodiment of the invention, the Solenoid type microcoil can produce a uniform magnetic field in a predetermined volume of the space.

In another embodiment of the invention, the microcoil is a planar spiral coil, which is a microcoil with its windings substantially remained in an actual or imaginative plane. In the embodiment, the microcoil is wound around a center, which often is also the center, or on the same axis of the center, of the associated space for holding a liquid sample and expands in a spiral like manner. The winding may take many different forms, depending on the needs of the specific device and analysis. For example, the winding may take a generally circular, square, or rectangular shape.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate top-down and cross-section views of an embodiment of the strip, which includes a space for holding a liquid sample, a microcoil, and a built-in magnet that generates a static magnetic field, B₀, across the sample holding space, which may contain a bio-molecular sample. As shown, the magnet is attached to an insulating layer and is located beside the sample holding space. A planar microcoil is located just beneath the sample holding space and wound around the space, which serves as an imaginative center of the windings. The windings of the microcoil are imbedded in the insulating layer, which is attached to a silicon substrate. As shown in the figures, the microcoil is wound in a square shaped and spiral like manner around the center. As disclosed herein, the microcoil may also be wound around the center in circular shaped manners.

In the embodiments of the invention, a planar microcoil is defined, in part, by its inner-area dimension, the number of windings, and the winding separation. The inner-area of a microcoil refers to the area at the center of the microcoil where there is no winding and around which the microcoil is wound. The shape of the inner-area is usually not perfectly regular, although it is often similar to a circular, rectangular, or square shape. As shown in FIG. 3, the inner-area of the microcoil has a roughly rectangular shape. The dimension of the inner-area is described herein by the length of the parameter of the area. The number of windings as used herein refers to the number of times the microcoil is wound around the inner-area. For example, the number of windings for the microcoil shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 is three (3). As used herein, the winding separation refers to the distance between two adjacent windings.

In one embodiment of the invention, the planar spiral microcoil comprises an inner-area dimension of from about 10 μm to 10 mm, about 1 to 100 windings, and a winding separation of about 1 μm to 500 μm. In another embodiment, the microcoil comprises an inner-area dimension of from about 100 μm to 1.0 mm, about 1 to 30 windings, and a winding separation of about 10 μm to 100 μm. In another specific embodiment, the microcoil has a cross-section dimension of from about 0.01 μm to about 100 μm.

FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate further embodiments of the invention. FIG. 5 shows a cross-section view of a strip for a portable NMR device. The strip comprises a permanent magnet, a microcoil, and a microchannel for holding a bio-molecular sample on a silicon substrate. The permanent magnet is connected to the rest of the substrate by an adhesive or seed layer. As shown in FIG. 5, the permanent magnet generates a static magnetic field, B₀, across the sample holding space, which is part of a microchannel. The microcoil, which has three windings, is located just above the sample holding space and is wound around an imaginative center above the sample holding space. In this embodiment, the microchannel may have one or more inlets and outlets (not shown) for sample input and output. The location and volume of the sample holding area where NMR occurs is determined according the specific needs of the analysis to be carried out, which will also determine the size and shape of the microcoil.

FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of the strip. As shown, the magnet is an electromagnet with a magnetic core and a soft-magnetic under layer. A static magnetic field, B0, is generated across a sample holding space, which is portion of a microchannel. A Solenoid microcoil is provided both above and under the sample holding space. The additional microcoil helps to effectuate the NMR and to detect and collect more information from the NMR.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a method of performing an NMR analysis using a portable NMR device. The method comprises: (1) providing a portable device that comprises a console, a strip, the strip comprising a space for holding a liquid sample and a microcoil capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across at least a portion of the space, and a magnet capable of generating a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space; (2) providing a liquid sample within the space; (3) placing the strip into the console; (4) using the magnet to generate a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the sample; (5) using the microcoil to generate an excitation magnetic field across at least a portion of the sample; and (6) detecting signals from the sample.

In one embodiment, the static magnetic field and the excitation magnetic field create Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) within the liquid sample. In another embodiment, the detecting of signals from the sample is by the microcoil. Further, the console may comprise a circuitry capable of detecting, processing, or analyzing the signals from the sample. According to another embodiment, the method further comprises generating an NMR spectroscopy of the liquid sample.

In another embodiment of the NMR analysis method, the strip is placed into the console through an opening on the console. The opening may be in the form of a slot into which the strip is inserted or removed. Further, the providing a liquid sample within the space comprises introducing two or more different samples into the space.

In the embodiment, samples suitable for the NMR analysis may contain any types of substances that can be analyzed through an NMR analysis. The substances include organic or inorganic molecules, macromolecule, biological cells, biomolecules such as proteins, peptides, nucleotides, polynucleotides, DNAs, RNAs, and substances containing free radicals radical or transition metal ions. Further, the volume of the sample may range from 1.0 nL to about 1.0 mL or, more specifically, from 10 nL to about 10 μL.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a portable device that comprises a console and a strip which comprises an array of microcoils for performing NMR analysis. The portable device comprises: a console; a strip, the strip comprising a space for holding a liquid sample and an array of microcoils capable of generating excitation magnetic fields across at least a portion of the space; and a magnet capable of generating a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space. According to the embodiment, the strip is capable of being placed within the console, the static magnetic field and the excitation magnetic fields are capable of creating Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) within a liquid sample contained in the space, and the microcoil is capable of detecting signals from the NMR. Variations of the embodiment encompass a strip that also comprises microarray or macroarray of microcoils and the associated sample holding space or spaces on the substrate. The microcoils and the spaces may be formed on or near the surface of the substrate using methods disclosed herein.

According to one embodiment, the substrate further comprises a magnet capable of generating a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space for holding a liquid sample. In the embodiment, the magnet is integrated into the substrate and is so designed and situated that it can generate the required static magnetic field across a portion or the whole of the sample holding space. Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the magnet is integrated with the console. In the embodiments, suitable conventional NMR magnets may be used according to the design of the device and the specific analysis to be carried out.

Suitable magnets include permanent magnets or electromagnets. As disclosed herein, the permanent magnet or electromagnet generates a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space for holding a liquid sample. Materials suitable for use as the permanent magnet or electromagnet include permanent magnetic materials, ferromagnetic materials, paramagnetic materials, and non-magnetic metals. When a ferromagnetic material is used for the magnet, an external magnetic field is used to magnetize the material. Further, when either a ferromagnetic or non-magnetic material is used for the magnet, an electrical current is applied to the material to create an electromagnet. In one embodiment of the invention, the magnet comprises one or more of iron, nickel, cobalt, a rare-earth material such as neodymium, copper, aluminum, and mixtures thereof. More specifically, a Neodymium-Iron-Boron type magnet can be used.

In the embodiment, the static magnetic field, together with the excitation magnetic field generated by the microcoil, is capable of creating Nuclear Magnetic Resonance within a liquid sample contained in the space. In this regard, the magnet is “associated” with the space for holding a liquid sample, meaning that the magnet is so situated that it will achieve the desired effect. A number of factors will be considered when associating the magnet with the space, including the size of the magnet, the sizes and locations of the associated space and microcoil, the desired strength of the static magnetic field, and the volume within which the desired NMR will be effectuated. In a specific embodiment, the magnet is placed near or adjacent to the space for holding a liquid sample. The specific type, size, strength, and location of the magnet on the substrate will be determined based on the specific analysis desired by a person skilled in the art.

In a specific embodiment, the magnet is capable of generating a static magnetic field strength of from about 0.01 T to about 30 T, or more specifically, from about 0.05 T to about 10 T. As disclosed herein, for NMR, a static magnetic field strength of 0.1 T or more may be required. Usually, a static magnetic field strength of 0.5 T or more is used in an NMR. Thus, in a specific embodiment, the magnet is capable of generating a static magnetic field strength of from about 0.1 T to about 5.0 T. In another specific embodiment, the magnet is capable of generating a static magnetic field strength of from about 0.5 T to about 2.0 T.

In one embodiment, the strip comprises silicon, glass, a polymeric material, metal, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the strip comprises an integrated circuit, a MEMS device, a microarray, a macroarray, a multi-well plate, a microfluidic device, or a combination thereof. Further, the strip may comprise circuitry that is capable of amplifying or processing the NMR signals detected by the microcoil.

In a specific embodiment of the invention, the strip comprises an array of spaces for holding liquid samples and wherein each of at least a portion of the microcoils is capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across one of the spaces. According to the embodiment, the strip comprises an array of sample holding spaces and their associated microcoils. The design of the sample holding space/microcoil array is made according to the specific analysis to be carried out. For example, specific samples can be put into the sample holding spaces, and analysis can be carried out with the help of the associated microcoils, as disclosed herein.

FIGS. 7 a and 7 b illustrate an embodiment of the invention in which an array of microcoils and their associated sample holding spaces are integrated in a single strip, or substrate, for performing an NMR analysis. FIG. 7 a shows a portion of the substrate in which an array of nine NMR microcoils, represented by the dots, is located on the portion of the substrate. Associated with each microcoil is a sample holding reservoir, represented by a circle, located beneath the microcoil. FIG. 7 b illustrates a detailed view of one of the microcoils. The device as shown in FIGS. 7 a and 7 b may or may not comprise an integrated magnet for the static magnetic field required for the NMR analysis. If the device does not contain an integrated magnet, a console with a built-in magnet may be used to carry out the analysis. Also, the strip may or may not comprise integrated components for processing and analyzing the data collected by the microcoils. Circuitries contained on the console may be used for further processing and analyzing the data collected by the microcoils.

FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the invention in which an array of microcoils and their associated sample holding spaces are integrated in a single strip, or substrate, for performing an NMR analysis. FIG. 8 shows a portion of the substrate in which an array of reservoirs for holding samples is located on the portion of the substrate. Associated with each reservoir is an NMR microcoil located beneath the reservoir. The device may be used to carry out multiple NMR analysis for single or multiple samples. For example, each of the plurality of reservoirs can be associated with a biomolecule, such as a DNA or protein. The association may be through conventional surface functionalization techniques or techniques disclosed herein. After association of DNAs to the plurality of reservoirs, a DNA microarray or macroarray is formed and can be used to perform multiple DNA analysis. In such cases, the DNA hybridization can be detected through the associated microcoils.

In another embodiment of the invention, each of at least a portion of the microcoils is capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across a distinct portion of the space. According to the embodiment, the space for holding a liquid sample is associated with an array of microcoils. The microcoils are arranged such that each microcoil is further associated with a distinct portion of, or a spot on, the sample holding space. The design of the microcoil array and the space is made according to the specific analysis. For example, probe or capture molecules can be attached to or associated with the individual microcoils to carry out specific DNA or protein analysis, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of the invention in which an array of microcoils and a single sample holding space are integrated in a strip, or substrate, for performing NMR analysis. FIG. 9 shows a portion of the substrate in which an array of microcoils is located on the portion of the substrate. The microcoils are immersed in a sample within the sample holding space. The device may be used to carry out multiple NMR analysis in different and distinct portions of the sample. For example, each of the plurality of microcoils can be associated with a biomolecule, such as a DNA or protein. The association may be through conventional surface functionalization techniques or techniques disclosed herein. After association of DNAs to the plurality of microcoils, a DNA microarray or macroarray is formed on the substrate and can be used to perform multiple DNA analysis. In such cases, the DNA hybridization can be detected through the associated microcoils.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the space for holding a liquid sample comprises a reservoir, a microchannel, an opening, a surface, or a combination thereof. The embodiment accommodates a variety of applications in which an NMR is involved. For example, the sample holding space may be a reservoir, an opening void, or a surface that can hold a liquid sample. In such cases, the sample holding space may be an open reservoir or surface, or a substantially closed void with an opening for sample input. The design of the space depends not only on the specific analysis to be done, but also on how to best situate and design the sample holding space in relation to the associated magnet and microcoil, as discussed herein.

According to the embodiment, the space for holding a liquid sample may also be the whole or part of a microchannel fabricated on the substrate. Depending on the specific requirement, the microchannel may be open (a trench) or closed. The microchannel typically comprises an inlet and an outlet, but may also comprise other opening for fluidic communication. In another embodiment, the microchannel comprise two or more inlets and at least one outlet such that different reactants may be introduced into the channel from different inlets and mixed at a mixing section within the channel for specific chemical reaction. Furthermore, the microchannel may comprise more than two inlets and more than one mixing sections such that more than one reactions may occur within different sections of the mircochannel according predetermined manners. As discussed herein, the microchannel is designed in consideration with its relations with the associated magnet and microcoil to achieve the desired NMR.

In the embodiments of the invention, the integrated on-chip NMR devices can accommodate a wide range of sample volume, including very small amount of samples. In one embodiment, the space for holding a liquid sample has a volume of from about 1.0 nL to about 10 mL, or more specifically, from about 0.1 μL to about 5.0 mL. In the embodiment, the sample holding space may be associated with an array of microcoils, each of which is capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across a distinct portion or spot on the space. In another embodiment, the substrate comprises an array of sample holding spaces and each of the spaces has a volume of from about 10 nL to about 10 μL. As understood by a person skilled in the art, actual sample volumes will depend on the nature of the analysis to be conducted, in addition to the limitation of the device. Also, the volume of the sample that actually experiences the NMR phenomenon will depend on the design and dimension of the device as well as the analysis being conducted.

In the embodiments of the invention, many conductive materials are suitable for the microcoils. The selection of materials for the microcoil depends on several factors including the type and size of the coil, the desired strength of excitation magnetic field, the size and location of space for holding a liquid sample, and the nature and location of the magnet. The conductivity of the material is important to the selection. In one embodiment of the invention, the microcoil comprises copper, aluminum, gold, silver, or a mixture thereof.

In the embodiments of the invention, an array of microcoils is “associated” with the space for holding a liquid sample, meaning that meaning that the microcoils are so situated that they will achieve the desired effect of creating NMR within at least a portion of the space. Further, individual microcoil is “associated” with a distinct portion or spot in or on the space when the microcoil is so situated that it will achieve the desired effect of creating NMR within the portion or spot in or on the space. A number of factors will be considered when associating the microcoil with the spot or the space, including the type and size of the microcoil, the sizes and locations of the associated spot or space, the desired strength of the static magnetic field and the excitation magnetic field, and the volume within which the desired NMR will be effectuated. In a specific embodiment, the microcoil is placed near or adjacent to the space for holding a liquid sample. The specific type, size, strength, and location of the microcoil on the substrate will be determined based on the specific analysis desired by a person skilled in the art.

In one embodiment of the invention, the microcoils are Solenoid type coils. Solenoid type microcoils are multiple spiral wire loops, which may or may not be wrapped around a metallic core. A Solenoid type microcoil produces a magnetic field when an electrical current is passed through it and can create controlled magnetic fields. In the embodiment of the invention, the Solenoid type microcoils can produce a uniform magnetic field in a predetermined volume of the space.

In another embodiment of the invention, the microcoils are planar spiral coils, which are microcoils with windings substantially remained in an actual or imaginative plane. In the embodiment, the microcoils are wound around a center, which often is also the center, or on the same axis of the center, of the associated spot or space for holding a liquid sample and expands in a spiral like manner. The winding may take many different forms, depending on the needs of the specific device and analysis. For example, the winding may take a generally circular, square, or rectangular shape.

In one embodiment of the invention, a planar spiral microcoil comprises an inner-area dimension of from about 10 μm to 10 mm, about 1 to 100 windings, and a winding separation of about 1 μm to 500 μm. In another embodiment, the microcoil comprises an inner-area dimension of from about 100 μm to 1.0 mm, about 1 to 30 windings, and a winding separation of about 10 μm to 100 μm. In another specific embodiment, the microcoil has a cross-section dimension of from about 0.01 μm to about 100 μm.

One embodiment of the invention relates to a method of performing an NMR analysis using a portable device having an array of microcoils. The method comprises: (1) providing a portable device that comprises a console, a strip comprising a space for holding a liquid sample and an array of microcoils capable of generating excitation magnetic fields across at least a portion of the space, and a magnet capable of generating a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space; (2) providing a liquid sample within the space; (3) placing the strip into the console; (4) using the magnet to generate a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the sample; (5) using at least a portion of the microcoils to generate an excitation magnetic field across at least a portion of the sample; and (6) detecting signals from the sample.

In one embodiment, each of at least a portion of the microcoils is used to generate an excitation magnetic field across a distinct portion of the space. In another embodiment, the substrate comprises an array of spaces for holding liquid samples and wherein each of at least a portion of the microcoils is used to generate an excitation magnetic field across one of the spaces.

According to one embodiment, the substrate further comprises a magnet capable of generating a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space for holding a liquid sample. In the embodiment, the magnet is integrated into the strip and is so designed and situated that it can generate the required static magnetic field across a portion or the whole of the sample holding space. Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the magnet is integrated into the console. In the embodiments, suitable conventional NMR magnets may be used according to the design of the device and the specific analysis to be carried out. Further, suitable magnets include permanent magnets or electromagnets.

In a specific embodiment of the invention, the static magnetic field, whether integrated with the strip or the console, and the excitation magnetic field create Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) within the liquid sample. The method for performing an NMR analysis may further comprise generating an NMR spectroscopy of the liquid sample.

According to one embodiment, each of at least a portion of the microcoils or sample holding spaces is associated with a biomolecule. In a specific embodiment, the biomolecule a DNA and is capable of hybridizing with a complementary DNA. NMR signals from the DNA hybridization is detected by at least a portion of the microcoils.

The above embodiments of the invention may also be regarded as integrating the plurality of microcoils and, in certain cases, the spaces for holding samples into a macroarray or microarray, such as a DNA array. In the embodiments, as discussed herein, multiple microcoils and the associated spaces are formed on or near the surface of the strip or substrate and form an array to perform certain analysis. When incorporated into a DNA array, the microcoils or sample holding spaces are further associated with or attached to the probe molecule or DNA probe, such that, when the DNA target and the probe hybridize, the whole or part of the hybridized molecule can be detected through NMR microcoils.

As disclosed herein, compound and molecules suitable for the NMR analysis by the embodiments of the invention include proteins, peptides, and, specifically, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), which can form double-stranded molecules by hybridization, that is, complementary base pairing. For example, in an embodiment of the invention, a molecular probe, such as a DNA probe, is associated with or attached to a sample reservoir or microcoil, which is located near or on the surface of, or otherwise integrated into, the substrate. The specificity of nucleic acid hybridization is such that the detection of molecular and/or nanomaterials binding events can be done through measurements of the NMR signals by the microcoils and other integrated or external components. This specificity of complementary base pairing also allows thousands of hybridization to be carried out simultaneously in the same experiment on a DNA chip (also called a DNA array).

Molecular probes are immobilized on the surface of individual or individually addressable reservoirs and/or microcoils through surface functionalization techniques. The microcoils allow the NMR signals to be detected and/or measured. The probe in a DNA chip is usually hybridized with a complex RNA or cDNA target generated by making DNA copies of a complex mixture of RNA molecules derived from a particular cell type (source). The composition of such a target reflects the level of individual RNA molecules in the source. The NMR signals resulting from the binding events from the DNA spots of the DNA chip after hybridization between the probe and the target represent the relative expression levels of the genes of the source.

The DNA chip could be used for differential gene expression between samples (e.g., healthy tissue versus diseased tissue) to search for various specific genes (e.g., connected with an infectious agent) or in gene polymorphism and expression analysis. Particularly, the DNA chip could be used to investigate expression of various genes connected with various diseases in order to find causes of these diseases and to enable accurate treatments.

Using embodiments of the invention, one could find a specific segment of a nucleic acid of a gene, i.e., find a site with a particular order of bases in the examined gene. This detection could be performed by using a diagnostic polynucleotide made up of short synthetically assembled single-chained complementary polynucleotide—a chain of bases organized in a mirror order to which the specific segment of the nucleic acid would attach (hybridize) via A-T or G-C bonds.

The practice of the embodiments of the invention may employ, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques of organic chemistry, polymer technology, molecular biology (including recombinant techniques), cell biology, biochemistry, and immunology, which are within the skill of the art. Such conventional techniques include polymer array synthesis, hybridization, ligation, detection of hybridization using a label. Specific illustrations of suitable techniques can be had by reference to the example herein below. However, other equivalent conventional procedures can, of course, also be used.

FIG. 10 illustrates the detection of DNA hybridization using a portable console with an NMR microcoil array. A portable device having integrated array of microcoils and the associated sample reservoirs is used for the analysis. Each microcoil/reservoir is associated or attached with a DNA probe. A sample containing DNA targets is placed in the reservoirs. As DNA hybridization happens, or not happens, within the reservoirs, the microcoils are used to generate excitation magnetic fields across the samples and, together with a static magnetic field, effectuate the NMR within the samples. The signals from the NMR are detected and collected by the microcoils and further processed. The static magnetic field and data collection and processing may be done by a combination of components on the strip, the console, and external devices. As shown in FIG. 10, the strip is placed into a console (or handheld analyzer, not shown) after undergoing the DNA hybridization. Furthermore, the data collected from the NMR analysis may be used for disease detection, among other purposes.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a method of making a portable NMR device. The method comprises: (1) fabricating a space for holding a liquid sample on a strip; (2) fabricating a microcoil on the strip, the microcoil being capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across at least a portion of the space; (3) fabricating a console, the console comprising an opening through which the strip can be placed within the console; and (4) attaching a magnet to the console or the strip, the magnet being capable of generating a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space. According to the embodiment, the static magnetic field and the excitation magnetic field are capable of creating Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) within a liquid sample contained in the space and the microcoil is capable of detecting signals from the NMR.

The portable NMR devices of the embodiments of the invention may be formed by any suitable means of manufacture, including semiconductor manufacturing methods, microforming processes, molding methods, material deposition methods, etc., or any suitable combination of such methods. In certain embodiments one or more of the magnets, microcoils, and circuitries on the strip or substrate may be formed via semiconductor manufacturing methods on a semiconductor substrate. Thin film coatings may be selectively deposited on portions of the substrate surface. Examples of suitable deposition techniques include vacuum sputtering, electron beam deposition, solution deposition, and chemical vapor deposition. The coatings may perform a variety of functions. For example, the coatings may be used to increase the hydrophilicity of a surface or to improve high temperature properties. Conductive coatings may be used to form the microcoils. Coatings may be used to provide a physical barrier on the surface, e.g. to retain fluid at specific sites on the surface.

In one embodiment of the invention, the strip is made through combining two or more smaller substrates to form a larger substrate or the strip. Specifically, the fabricating of the sample holding space, the attaching of the magnet, or the fabricating of the microcoil may involve combining two or more smaller substrates to form the strip.

The strip or substrate used in the embodiments of the invention may comprise various materials including, but not limited to silicon, glass, metal, and polymeric material. According to the embodiments, the substrate comprises an integrated circuit, a MEMS device, a microarray, a macroarray, a multi-well plate, a microfluidic device, or a combination thereof.

In on embodiment of the invention, the space for holding a liquid sample comprises a reservoir, a microchannel, an opening, a surface, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the magnet comprises a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. The magnet may be placed near or adjacent to the space for holding a liquid sample. According to another embodiment, the microcoil comprises of copper, aluminum, gold, silver, or a mixture thereof. The microcoil is placed near or adjacent to the space for holding a liquid sample. Either Solenoid type or a planar spiral microcoil may be used.

As disclosed herein, silicon is a suitable material for attaching other materials, such as metal or magnetic materials and forming structures, such as openings and microchannels coupled with microelectronics or other microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). It also has good stiffness, allowing the formation of fairly rigid microstructures, which can be useful for dimensional stability. In a specific embodiment of the invention, the strip or substrate comprises an integrated circuit (IC), a packaged integrated circuit, and/or an integrated circuit die. For example, the substrate may be a packaged integrated circuit that comprises a microprocessor, a network processor, or other processing device.

In another embodiment, the method further comprises forming circuitry on or within the strip that is capable of amplifying or processing the NMR signals detected by the microcoil. The strip may be constructed using, for example, a Controlled Collapse Chip Connection (or “C4”) assembly technique, wherein a plurality of leads, or bond pads are internally electrically connected by an array of connection elements (e.g., solder bumps, columns).

In another embodiment of the invention, the fabricating of the microcoil comprises fabricating an array of microcoils capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across at least a portion of the space. Further, each of at least a portion of the array of microcoils is capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across a distinct portion of the space. In the embodiment, the strip may comprise an array of spaces for holding liquid samples and each of at least a portion of the microcoils is capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across one of the spaces. Thus, the embodiment encompasses fabricating an array of sample holding spaces each in association with a microcoil.

In the embodiments of the invention, the magnet may be attached either to the console or to the strip. The magnet, whether being a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, may be attached to a silicon substrate through an adhesive layer to form the strip. The adhesive layer can also be referred to and regarded as a seed layer used to join the magnet with the substrate. Any suitable adhesive materials may be used as the adhesive layer. In one embodiment of the invention, the adhesive layer comprises one or more of titanium, tantalum, platinum, and palladium.

According to the embodiments of the invention, microcoils can be fabricated on or within the strip or substrate using a number of techniques, including etching, bonding, annealing, adhering/seeding, lithography, molding, and printing. Physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) can also be used. In one embodiment, microcoils are fabricated on an oxidized silicon substrate by electroplating metals inside a deep photoresist mold and then passivated using an epoxy based resist.

The strip or substrate of the embodiments of the present invention is suitable for forming openings, voids, surfaces, or microchannels thereon for holding fluid and fluidic communications. The sample holding space may be open or closed along. Various methods may be used to form the sample holding space on the substrate. For example, a reservoir or an open microchannel can be fabricated on a silicon substrate by etching methods known to those skilled in the art. Closed microchannels can be formed by sealing the open channels at top using methods such as anodic bonding of glass plates onto the open microchannels on the silicon substrate.

According to one embodiment of the invention, to fabricate a microchannel on a silicon substrate, a photoresist (positive or negative) is spun onto the silicon substrate. The photoresist is exposed to UV light through a high-resolution mask with the desired device patterns. After washing off the excessive unpolymerized photoresist, the silicon substrate is placed in a wet chemical etching bath that anisotropically etches the silicon in locations not protected by the photoresist. The result is a silicon substrate in which microchannels are etched. If desired, a glass cover slip is used to fully enclose the channels. Also, holes are drilled in the glass to allow fluidic access. For straighter edges and a deeper etch depth, deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) can be used as an alternative to wet chemical etching.

In another embodiment of the invention, microchannels may be formed on a silicon substrate using the following method. A seed layer of a metal, such as copper, is deposited over a surface of the substrate. Any suitable blanket deposition process may be used to deposit the seed layer of metal, such as physical vapor deposition (PVD), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), or other methods known to those skilled in the art. A layer of a sacrificial material, such as a dielectric material or a photoresist material, is then deposited over the seed layer. By removing the sacrificial material, for example using chemical etch process or thermal decomposition process, a number of trenches in the sacrificial layer is formed, and the seed layer is exposed in each of the trenches. Another layer of the metal, such as copper, is deposited over the exposed seed layer in the trenches. The metal layer extends over portions of the upper surface of the sacrificial layer; but gaps remain between the metal material layers extending from adjacent trenches and over the upper surface of the sacrificial layer. The sacrificial layer is removed, for example using chemical etching process or thermal decomposition process, and regions from which the sacrificial layer has been removed form channels in the metal layer. An additional layer of the metal is deposited over the upper surfaces of the metal layer to close the gaps over the channels.

In the embodiments of the invention, reservoirs, openings and microchannels can be made by using soft lithography method with suitable materials, such as silicon and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). With these techniques it is possible to generate patterns with critical dimensions as small as 30 nm. These techniques use transparent, elastomeric PDMS “stamps” with patterned relief on the surface to generate features. The stamps can be prepared by casting prepolymers against masters patterned by conventional lithographic techniques, as well as against other masters of interest. Several different techniques are known collectively as soft lithography. They are as described below:

Near-Field Phase Shift Lithography. A transparent PDMS phase mask with relief on its surface is placed in conformal contact with a layer of photoresist. Light passing through the stamp is modulated in the near-field. Features with dimensions between 40 and 100 nm are produced in photoresist at each phase edge.

Replica Molding. A PDMS stamp is cast against a conventionally patterned master. Polyurethane is then molded against the secondary PDMS master. In this way, multiple copies can be made without damaging the original master. The technique can replicate features as small as 30 nm.

Micromolding in Capillaries (MIMIC). Continuous channels are formed when a PDMS stamp is brought into conformal contact with a solid substrate. Capillary action fills the channels with a polymer precursor. The polymer is cured and the stamp is removed. MIMIC is able to generate features down to 1 μm in size.

Microtransfer Molding ((TM). A PDMS stamp is filled with a prepolymer or ceramic precursor and placed on a substrate. The material is cured and the stamp is removed. The technique generates features as small as 250 nm and is able to generate multilayer systems.

Solvent-assisted Microcontact Molding (SAMIM). A small amount of solvent is spread on a patterned PDMS stamp and the stamp is placed on a polymer, such as photoresist. The solvent swells the polymer and causes it to expand to fill the surface relief of the stamp. Features as small as 60 nm have been produced.

Microcontact Printing ((CP). An “ink” of alkanethiols is spread on a patterned PDMS stamp. The stamp is then brought into contact with the substrate, which can range from coinage metals to oxide layers. The thiol ink is transferred to the substrate where it forms a self-assembled monolayer that can act as a resist against etching. Features as small as 300 nm have been made in this way.

Techniques used in other groups include micromachining of silicon for microelectromechanical systems, and embossing of thermoplastic with patterned quartz. Unlike conventional lithography, these techniques are able to generate features on both curved and reflective substrates and rapidly pattern large areas. A variety of materials could be patterned using the above techniques, including metals and polymers. The methods complement and extend existing nanolithographic techniques and provide new routes to high-quality patterns and structures with feature sizes of about 30 nm.

Standard lithography on silicone wafer or silica glass could also be used to fabricate the devices of the embodiments of this invention. Reservoirs, openings and channels in the micrometer or nanometer scale can be fabricated from the devices, and fluidic flow can be controlled by pressure gradient, electrical field gradient, gravity, and heat gradient. The binding complexes or sensors can also be separated by planar device with a single a plurality of chambers, where the surfaces are modified with polymers (polyethylene glycol (PEG)-dramatized compounds) that can minimize non-specific binding. The solid support can be inorganic material (e.g., glass, ceramic) or metal (e.g., aluminum). Biomolecules, proteins, antibodies, and/or nucleic acids can be coated on the surface of the substrate for specific analyte binding.

In the embodiments of the invention, the microchannels formed on the substrate may be straight or have angles or curves along their lengths. The characteristics and layout of the microchannels are determined by the specific applications the device is designed for. Although straight microchannels lining next to one another are a typical design for microfluidic devices, the microchannels in the embodiments of the invention may be designed in many different patterns to serve specific separation and detection requirements. Specifically, the design of the microchannels takes into consideration of the microcoils associated with the microchannels such that the microcoils are capable of generating excitation magnetic fields across relevant portions of the microchannels. Further, in the embodiments of the invention, the cross-section of the micro-channel so formed may be uniform or vary along the channel's length, and may have various shapes, such as rectangle, circle, or polygon.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Simulation of Integrated On-Chip NMR

Model calculations showed that on-chip NMR with integrated permanent/electromagnet can provide reasonable signal to noise ratio (SNR) so that the collected spectra is useful for on-chip characterization of bio-molecules. The induced NMR signal was calculated using the principle of reciprocity as described in C. Massin et al., “High-Q Factor RF Planar Microcoils for Micro-Scale NMR Spectroscopy,” Sensors and Actuators A 97-98, 280-283 (2002) and C. Massin et al., “Planar Microcoil-Based Microfluidic NME Probes,” J. Magn. Res. 164, 242-255 (2003). It was assumed that thermal noise is predominant. SNR in frequency domain (or SNR_(f)) was calculated as a key metric because NMR results are analyzed as spectra.

${SNR}_{f} = {{{{SNR}_{t} \cdot \frac{T_{2}^{*}}{\sqrt{2\; T_{acq}}}}\mspace{14mu}{where}\mspace{14mu}{SNR}_{t}} = {{\frac{S_{0}}{\sqrt{4\;{kT}_{c}R_{c}}}\mspace{14mu}{with}\mspace{14mu} S_{0}} = {\omega_{0}B_{uc}M_{0}V}}}$

Where SNR_(f) is SNR in frequency domain, SNR_(t) is normalized (by bandwidth) SNR in time domain, T₂* is effective decay time, T_(acq) is acquisition time, k is Boltzmann constant, T_(c) is temperature, R_(c) is coil resistance; w equals 2πν₀ where ν₀ (Larmor frequency) is 64 MHz with static magnetic field of 1.5 T, B_(uc) is magnetic field at center of coil, M₀ is saturation volume magnetization, and V is sample volume.

All the parameter values are physical constants or available from experiments in literatures. Assuming ¹H NMR, below are the parameter values used for the model calculation:

Static magnetic field=1.5 T (this corresponds to Larmor frequency of 64 MHz);

B_(uc)=1.2 mT;

V=10 uL;

T_(c)=room temperature;

R_(c)=1 Ohm (with ˜1 mm coil diameter);

T₂*=10 msec.;

T_(acq)=164 msec.;

M₀ (for water)=5×10⁻⁵ A/m.

It was assumed that the saturation volume magnetization of biomolecular sample is 1% of water. It has been reported that conventional NMR spectroscopy can be used to collect high quality spectra of bio-molecular sample such as RNA, DNA, and proteins etc.

According to the model calculation, SNR_(f) of 33 was obtained per acquisition with static magnetic field of 1.5 T. SNR for other static magnetic fields are shown in Table 1. For all cases, the level of SNR_(f) is good enough for characterization as shown in previous studies. It is believed that with modifications such as coil design, sample preparation techniques, multiple data acquisitions, increased sample volume, and multi-dimensional NMR, SNR_(f) can be increased by an order of magnitude, resulting in richer structural and chemical information. Table 2 shows magnetic properties of permanent magnets which have remanence value of around 1.0 T. As understood by person skilled in the art, remanence is important for generating a static magnetic field. The permanent magnets can be used to generate static magnetic fields of about 0.8-1.3 T. Higher magnetic fields may be obtained by combining electromagnets with such permanent magnets.

TABLE 1 Static Magnetic Field vs. Signal to Noise Ratio Static Magnetic Field (Tesla) SNR_(f) 0.8 18 1.0 22 1.2 27 1.5 33

TABLE 2 Magnetic Properties of Permanent Magnets Material Coercivity (Tesla) Remanence (Tesla) (BB₀/μ₀)_(max) (kJ/m³) Alnico V 0.07 1.35 55 Alcomax I 0.05 1.2 27.8 SmCo₅ 1.0 0.83 160 Sm₂Co₁₇ 0.6 1.15 215 Nd₂Fe₁₄B 1.2 1.2 260

The characteristics of some of the embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the Figures and examples, which are intended to be merely exemplary of the invention. This application discloses several numerical range limitations that support any range within the disclosed numerical ranges even though a precise range limitation is not stated verbatim in the specification because the embodiments of the invention could be practiced throughout the disclosed numerical ranges. Finally, the entire disclosure of the patents and publications referred in this application, if any, are hereby incorporated herein in entirety by reference. 

1. A method comprising: fabricating a strip having a magnet, a space for holding a liquid sample and a microcoil on the strip, the microcoil being capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across at least a portion of the space, the magnet being capable of generating a static magnetic field across at least a portion of the space; and fabricating a handheld, portable console having an opening through which the strip can be placed within the console; wherein the static magnetic field and the excitation magnetic field are capable of creating Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) within a liquid sample contained in the space; and wherein the microcoil is capable of detecting signals from the NMR.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the fabricating of the space or the fabricating of the microcoil comprises combining two or more substrates to form the strip.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising forming circuitry on the strip, the circuitry being capable of amplifying or processing the NMR signals detected by the microcoil.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the fabricating of the microcoil comprises fabricating an array of microcoils capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across at least a portion of the space.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein each of at least a portion of the microcoils is capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across a distinct portion of the space.
 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the strip comprises an array of spaces for holding liquid samples and wherein each of at least a portion of the microcoils is capable of generating an excitation magnetic field across one of the spaces.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the magnet is attached to the console.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the magnet is attached to the strip.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the console is designed to have a dimension from about 0.1 cm to about 50 cm.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the strip comprises an integrated circuit, a packaged integrated circuit or an integrated circuit die on silicon.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the handheld, portable console contains no magnet. 